Best Platform Bed Frames for Every Kind of Bedroom Decor

Platform beds have several advantages over boxspring bases: They’re generally less expensive, they often provide storage space, and they tend to last longer, to name just a few. If you’re looking to update your bedroom, check out our list of the best platform bed frames to find your ideal new sleeping spot.

Our picks for best platform bed frames

There are a ton of wooden platform bed frames out there, but Mitri’s pick for the best is this elegantly simple one from Thuma (who made our lists for the best wooden bed frames and also the best linen sheets). “This bed frame combines contemporary design, sustainability, and quality all in one,” she enthuses. “You cannot go wrong with this bed frame—there are several color options to choose from, all which accent your style and space.”

Specifications:

• Material: Upcycled solid rubberwood
• Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
• Weight capacity: Not listed
• Underbed space: Yes
• Price at publish: $795 - $1,195

What we like:

• Available in four colors
• Supportive
• Easy to assemble

What we don’t like:

• A few customers who bought it with the pillow board add-on express concerns about keeping the pillow board upright

The bottom line:

An elegant and sustainable platform bed frame that will go with any room.

What to consider when buying a platform bed frame

Appearance

“Platform beds are a modern and versatile type of bed that come in a variety of styles,” says Byron Golub, vice president of product and merchandising at Saatva (a brand that made our lists of the best places to buy a mattress and best places to buy bedding). “Due to their contemporary, low-profile look, platform beds have become increasingly popular. They have a sleek, minimalist appearance and are designed to sit closer to the ground than regular bed types. In addition, they often come with storage space underneath the base.”

Maintenance

“Platform beds are low-maintenance, but if you opt for an upholstered one, it’s recommended to clean it occasionally to maintain its condition,” says Golub. “You’ll need to vacuum regularly to remove dust and dirt and follow the manufacturer’s care instructions to treat stains.”

Lifestyle

Platform beds may have a stylishly modern look, but it may not be a great fit for everyone. For one, they tend to be a bit low. So, if you have mobility issues, you may want to consider an adjustable bed frame instead. Second, if you use your under bed space for storage, know that most platform beds will put everything on display (unless you use a dust ruffle, which may not work with the aforementioned modern look).

Best places to buy platform bed frames

“Platform beds can be found anywhere, and within any price range!” says Mitri. “You can get them from Amazon, Wayfair, Casper, or any of your local and regional furniture stores.”

How we chose the best platform bed frames to recommend

All of our selections were based on the advice of our experts, as well as our own personal experience. We also conducted extensive research to check that all of our picks were rated highly for customer satisfaction, especially in terms of comfort, durability, and value for money.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is the best material for a platform bed?

“Platform beds can be made in different materials, with wood and metal being the most popular,” says Mitri. “Wood is the best material to go with, as certain metals may rust over time. If you’re going with wood, make sure it’s a heavier and high-quality wood to ensure product quality.”

Can a mattress go directly on a platform bed?

“Yes, a mattress can go directly on a platform bed,” confirms Mitri. “Traditional beds need box springs to create a foundation for your mattress. Platform beds don’t need box springs and provide a support base for your mattress within the product design. Platform beds consist of a foundation in a rectangular frame with slats across for support. Platform beds are most compatible with memory foam mattresses.”

Is a platform bed comfortable?

“Platform beds are comfortable, but they tend to me more firm than traditional beds,” warns Mitri. “That’s because traditional beds have box springs that add a cushion. Because platform beds don’t have box springs and contain a strong foundation for your mattress, they’re firmer than the traditional bed frame.”

For more firm bed advice, check our guide to the best mattresses for back pain.

What are the pros and cons of a platform bed?

Per Mitri, the pros and cons of platform beds are as follows:

Pros

• Affordable
• Low height
• Simple design
• Sturdy

Cons

• Can be firmer than traditional beds
• Metal beds can squeak due to rust
• Not as many design options as traditional panel beds